Welcome aspiring welders! If you have a passion for creating and building with metal, then welding may just be the perfect career path for you. As a welder, you will have the opportunity to work with your hands, use your creativity, and turn raw materials into functional and beautiful products. In Kansas, the demand for skilled welders is on the rise. From manufacturing to construction, there are countless industries that rely on the expertise of welders to join and repair metal structures. In fact, the Kansas Department of Labor predicts that there will be an 12% increase in welding jobs in the state between 2020 and 2030.
Education and Training Requirements to Become a Welder in Kansas
If you are considering a career in welding, it is important to understand the education and training requirements necessary to succeed in this field.
- High school diploma or equivalent: Most welding programs require a high school diploma or equivalent to enroll.
- Welding certificate or degree: Many community colleges and technical schools offer welding certificate or degree programs. These programs typically take anywhere from six months to two years to complete, and provide students with hands-on training in welding techniques, equipment, and safety procedures.
- Apprenticeships: Some welders choose to complete an apprenticeship, which involves on-the-job training under the supervision of an experienced welder. Apprenticeships can take anywhere from one to four years to complete.
- Certifications: Many welding jobs require certification in specific welding techniques or from certain organizations, such as the American Welding Society (AWS). Certification typically involves passing a written and practical exam.
On-the-Job Training and Experience through Certifications
Once you have completed your education and training, there are several certifications that can help you gain valuable on-the-job training and experience in the welding field:
- Certified Welder (CW): This certification from the AWS is designed for entry-level welders who have completed a welding program or apprenticeship. It requires passing a practical welding exam.
- Certified Welding Inspector (CWI): This certification is for experienced welders who are interested in becoming inspectors. It requires passing a written and practical exam.
- Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS): This certification is for experienced welders who are interested in supervisory roles. It requires passing a written exam.
By obtaining these certifications, you can demonstrate your expertise and gain the necessary experience to advance your career as a welder in Kansas. Becoming a welder in Kansas can be a rewarding career choice. By understanding the education and training requirements, as well as the certifications available, you can prepare yourself for a successful career in welding. So, get ready to put on your welding helmet and start building a brighter future.
Training Programs for Welders in Kansas
Here are some of the training programs available for welders in Kansas, along with the schools that offer them:
| Program Name
| School Name |
| Welding Technology Certificate | Hutchinson Community College |
| Welding Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree | Salina Area Technical College |
| Welding Technology Diploma | Manhattan Area Technical College |
| Welding Technology Certificate | Washburn Institute of Technology |
| Welding Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree | Johnson County Community College |
Job Opportunities for Welders in Kansas
Welders in Kansas can find employment opportunities in a variety of industries, including:
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Agriculture
- Oil and Gas
- Transportation
Some of the companies in Kansas that employ welders include:
- Spirit AeroSystems
- Caterpillar Inc.
- John Deere
- Excel Industries
- BNSF Railway
Career Advancement and Continuing Education Opportunities for Welders
Continuing education and career advancement can play a significant role in a welder’s salary. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in Kansas was $46,390 as of May 2021. However, those with advanced skills and certifications can earn higher salaries.
To advance their careers, welders can pursue continuing education opportunities such as:
- Welding Inspector Certification
- Welding Supervisor Certification
- Welding Engineering Degree
By investing in their education and gaining additional certifications, welders can increase their earning potential and open up new career opportunities in the welding field.